Lyon joins the Dockers with the highest winning percentage of any current AFL coach, four trips to the finals series and three grand final appearances.

Fremantle president Steve Harris said Lyon would bring a new culture to the club and playing staff, one based on 'professionalism, diligence and a ruthless will to win'.

"Ross's professional attributes and coaching style are founded on a demanding worth ethic," Harris said.

"It is clear that Ross can deliver a consistent and successful game style while at the same time continue to build the culture of our playing group.

"We expect under Ross's guidance to execute a well-planned pre-season that will lay the foundation for a playing group that is consistent, driven and competitive throughout the entire home and away season and plays finals in 2012."

Despite the furore surrounding the dismissal of Harvey, Harris said he was comfortable with the club's decision to quickly place Lyon in the head coaching role.

"Despite the disquiet caused by our decision to end Mark Harvey's tenure at Fremantle, we believe it was the right decision in the long-term interests to appoint Ross to take over as a senior coach of the club," Harris said.